Navigating volatility: How CPG brands can shore up their supply chain in uncertain times

While disruption can’t be prevented, supply chain leaders can take proactive steps to withstand it—starting with the right 3PL partner built for resilience. Geopolitical instability, fluctuating tariffs and rising costs expose critical vulnerabilities that can derail production, disrupt timeliness and threaten business success. For CPG suppliers, these pressures are compounded by inflation, shifting consumer demand, labor shortages and transportation disruptions.

The bottom line? Adapt—or risk falling behind. According to McKinsey, more than 90% of supply chain leaders experienced at least one major disruption in the past year, with nearly half describing the impact as “severe.” In today’s environment, inaction is not an option.

While no one can eliminate global uncertainty, the right 3PL partner can offer something more valuable: scalability, reliability and a resilient foundation for what comes next.

Here’s how your 3PL should help you navigate supply chain volatility with confidence.

Retail consolidation for greater control

Retail consolidation enables suppliers to maximize efficiency by combining truckloads with other customers to create a single, full truckload to the same retailer distribution center. This streamlined approach significantly reduces transit time and costs, enabling products to reach shelves faster and more efficiently.

A single consolidated truckload can replace an average of 34 less-than-truckload (LTL) shipments. With typical transit times of just two days—compared to the five-day average for LTL—suppliers realize 20 to 30% in cost savings. Beyond operational efficiency, this strategy supports greener, more efficient routes while boosting in-stock availability and sales.

Improve forecasting through predictive analytics

Predictive analytics tools are transforming supply chain operations by delivering real-time visibility and actionable insights. With capabilities such as on-demand reporting, item-level performance tracking, advanced inventory analysis, and automated management of claims and disputes, suppliers are empowered to make smarter, faster decisions at every stage.

These tools enhance forecasting accuracy, reduce operational costs, and boost overall supply chain efficiency—ultimately driving stronger bottom-line results and greater agility in an unpredictable market.

Strengthen compliance to avoid retail penalties

As retailer delivery standards grow increasingly strict, non-compliance can have a significant impact on supplier profitability. Partnering with a third-party logistics (3PL) provider that understands the intricacies of retailer-specific requirements is key to maintaining high performance and avoiding costly chargebacks.

Experienced 3PL partners support suppliers with consistent on-time and in-full (OTIF) delivery, while actively managing the evolving compliance landscape. Real-time dashboards and detailed scorecards offer visibility into performance by retailer and SKU, equipping suppliers with the insights needed to make fast, informed action.

In today’s unpredictable retail environment, CPG suppliers need more than just reliable transportation—they need a strategic logistics partner that delivers visibility, control and results. With an integrated approach, suppliers take back control of their supply chains through smart retail consolidation, data-driven forecasting and proactive compliance management.

About the author

Kevin Williamson

Kevin Williamson is RJW Logistics Group CEO. With over 30 years of experience in transportation and supply chain management, Williamson has been the driving force behind RJW’s ability to realize significant growth and increased market share. Since assuming the role of CEO in 2010, he has guided the company’s expansion and delivered 26% revenue growth annually over the last five years. With an emphasis on continuous innovation to deliver greater customer value, Williamson has championed pioneering initiatives across inventory management, consolidation, sustainability, and the development of new logistics technologies that increase CPG supply chain transparency, control and efficiencies. Under his leadership, the company produces industry-leading performance of 98%+ on-Time, 99% in-full, with nearly 100% inventory accuracy to a growing customer base of 850 CPG suppliers worldwide, strengthening suppliers’ ability to get products to shelves faster for less while maintaining compliance and growing shelf space.

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